The dream of a 64-team World Cup has been scrapped, and the format FIFA is preparing for the South American qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup threatens to completely distort the competition. With Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay already qualified as hosts of the opening matches—but playing all 18 rounds without risking anything in the standings—seven teams will have to fight for just three direct berths and one playoff spot.
In this report, we analyze how the altitude battle in El Alto (Bolivia) and Cusco or Puno (Peru), the likely fielding of reserve squads by the qualified teams, the miscalculation by the Venezuelan federation, and Chile's geographical disadvantage will change the map of South America. Furthermore, we explain why this lack of real competition could deepen Brazil's crisis and further distance CONMEBOL from the 2030 World Cup title.
The dream of a 64-team World Cup has been scrapped, and the format FIFA is preparing for the South American qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup threatens to completely distort the competition. With Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay already qualified as hosts of the opening matches—but playing all 18 rounds without risking anything in the standings—seven teams will have to fight for just three direct berths and one playoff spot.
In this report, we analyze how the altitude battle in El Alto (Bolivia) and Cusco or Puno (Peru), the likely fielding of reserve squads by the qualified teams, the miscalculation by the Venezuelan federation, and Chile's geographical disadvantage will change the map of South America. Furthermore, we explain why this lack of real competition could deepen Brazil's crisis and further distance CONMEBOL from the 2030 World Cup title.